If you’re building a business and need real advice- Ibukun Awosika is someone you want to listen to. A respected entrepreneur, author, and the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, she has built an inspiring legacy through grit, faith, and wisdom.
But what makes her truly stand out is her ability to blend business strategy with faith values.
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to scale your brand, here are 5 powerful and relatable business tips from Ibukun Awosika that can help you grow—not just in profit, but in purpose too.
1. Build a Business on Integrity.
“You must be able to go to bed with peace, knowing you made the right choices.”
Integrity is non-negotiable. In a world full of shortcuts and hype, your honesty and consistency are your biggest assets. People want to work with those they can trust.
Therefore, don’t fall for the trap of shady deals—even when they seem tempting. One quick sale isn’t worth damaging your brand. At the end of the day, real success comes from trust, not shortcuts.
2. Start Where You Are, With What You Have.
“Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with what’s in your hand.”
There’s no need to wait till you have you have a million naira to start a good business. Use the skills, knowledge, and tools you already have. Progress beats perfection—every single time.
Got a phone and data? Start that Instagram business. Know how to bake or style hair? Monetize it. Your beginning may be small, but it’s valid.
3. Don’t Just Follow Trends—Fix Real Issues.
“Your business must solve a need, not just follow a trend.”
The reality is that trends fade. But when you solve real problems—whether it’s helping people save time, look good, feel good, or earn better—your business stays relevant.
Before launching a product or service, ask yourself: “Whose life does this make easier? How?”
Build your brand around that answer.
4. Stay Curious, Stay Ahead.
“The world is changing daily. If you don’t grow, you get left behind.”
Whether it’s a podcast, book, or online course, keep feeding your mind. When you consistently feed your mind, you broaden your horizons. The most successful people are lifelong learners.
Pick one business book this month. Follow thought leaders in your niche. Listen to a business podcast while doing chores. Small daily inputs = big results over time.
5. Let Your Faith Guide You.
“I don’t separate my faith from my business.”
Your values and your faith should shape how you run your business—from the decisions you make to how you treat people.
Pray about your business. Seek wisdom before big moves. Keep God at the center, and you’ll find peace even in uncertainty.
IN CONCLUSION.
Ibukun Awosika’s business advice hits different because it’s built on timeless values—like integrity, purpose, growth, and faith. Those things never go out of style.
So whether you’re starting an online brand, running a small side hustle, or growing a full-on business, remember this: you don’t have to follow the crowd. Build it your way—with heart, with strategy, and with God leading the way.
